Tochitura

Tochitura – A traditional delicacy for special moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 65 minutes
Total time: 85 minutes
Servings: 4-6

If you are looking for a recipe that combines the flavor of meat with rich aromas and comforting textures, tochitura is the perfect choice. This traditional recipe, cherished over time, is a true feast for the senses. In this detailed guide, I will show you how to prepare a delicious tochitura that will impress family and friends.

Necessary ingredients:
- 800 g pork shoulder (choose quality meat with moderate fat content for better flavor)
- 300 g homemade smoked sausages (preferably with a slightly spicy seasoning)
- 300 g smoked meat (you can opt for a combination of bacon and pork chop)
- 2 large onions (choose yellow onions for a sweet taste)
- 50-75 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil are the most suitable)
- 1 bay leaf (for an extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 250 ml white wine (a dry wine is ideal, but you can also use a semi-dry wine)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (you can opt for tomato purée or paste)
- 3 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense taste)
- Grated telemea cheese (optional, for serving)
- Polenta (to complement this savory dish)

The history of tochitura:
Tochitura is a traditional recipe that has been prepared for generations, bringing joy and conviviality to people. Originating from rural communities, this dish was often prepared on festive days or family gatherings, associated with hospitality and good cheer. The rich flavor and combination of smoked and fresh meat make tochitura a special dish, perfect for winter meals or festive occasions.

Step by step: Preparing tochitura

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder and smoked meat into suitable cubes. Make sure to have a uniform size for even cooking. You can cut the sausages into slices of about 2 cm.

2. Sauté the onion:
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and starts to soften. This step will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your dish.

3. Add the fresh meat:
Once the onion has softened, add the pork shoulder cubes. Mix well to coat them with oil and onion. Let them sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes.

4. Including the smoked meat and sausages:
Once the pork shoulder is lightly browned, add the smoked meat and sausage slices. Continue to cook for 5 minutes, stirring to combine the flavors.

5. Add the wine and spices:
Pour the white wine over the meat, along with 100 ml of water and the bay leaf. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer over low heat for about 50 minutes. Stir occasionally, and if you notice the sauce becoming too thick, add a little more water or wine.

6. Season:
After 50 minutes, add salt and pepper to taste. At this point, add the tomato paste dissolved in warm water and the crushed garlic. Mix well and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. This will intensify the flavors and add a delicious note to the dish.

7. Serving:
Tochitura is served hot, alongside soft polenta and fried eggs. On top, you can grate a little telemea for extra flavor. This dish is ideal for winter evenings when you crave something comforting and full of taste.

Serving suggestions and variations:
- Instead of telemea, you can try using feta cheese or grated parmesan for a different note.
- Add a few green or black olives during cooking for a more complex flavor.
- If you are a fan of spices, feel free to add a little chili or peppercorns for a spicy note.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can tochitura be frozen? Yes, tochitura can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.
- Can I substitute pork shoulder with another type of meat? Of course! You can use beef or even chicken, but the cooking time may vary.
- What wine should I choose for cooking? Opt for a dry white wine, which will add a subtle flavor, but you can also use red wine if you prefer.

Nutritional benefits:
Tochitura is a rich source of protein, thanks to the pork and sausages. Additionally, onions and garlic provide benefits for the immune system, while polenta offers complex carbohydrates that will give you long-lasting energy. However, consume in moderation, considering the fat content.

In conclusion, tochitura is more than just a simple dish – it is a rich culinary experience, full of memories and traditions. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love behind the recipe, making every meal a celebration. Prepare this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its unique flavors – you will want to repeat it again and again!

 Ingredients: 800 g pork shoulder, 300 g homemade smoked sausages, 300 g smoked meat, 2 onions, 50-75 ml oil, 1 bay leaf, salt and pepper, 250 ml white wine, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 3 cloves of garlic, lemon zest for garnish (optional)